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Can a single story of a compassionate pediatrician change the course of a young life? Join us as we explore this and many other profound experiences in our latest episode. Dana and I take you on a journey through the emotional landscapes of those touched by domestic violence, offering a poignant look into the lives of victims who are often judged rather than supported. We tackle the harsh realities of living in high-anxiety environments and the devastating impact it can have on one's identity, sparking crucial conversations about societal perceptions and the importance of taking action for those we love.

Throughout the episode, we confront the soul-crushing isolation imposed by narcissistic abusers, who sever ties and manipulate their victims into feeling utterly alone. Yet, amidst the darkness, there's a message of hope and resilience—highlighting the significance of building supportive communities to help reclaim one's identity. Personal stories of loss, judgment, and the journey of rebuilding self-esteem offer listeners a profound understanding of the strength required to overcome trauma and rebuild a life that celebrates individuality and confidence.

As we close, the emphasis on healing and reclaiming one's identity resonates, echoing the importance of small personal victories in the journey toward self-recovery. From the cathartic act of decluttering and donating clothes to the empowering process of rediscovering personal interests, each step is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. Through heartfelt stories and hard-earned insights, we aim to provide a supportive space for those affected by abuse, offering inspiration and practical steps toward healing and self-love.

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Join us on an inspiring journey as we welcome Shanti Hershenson, a remarkable teen author who transformed her pandemic-induced solitude into a flourishing writing career. With her transition from guest to co-host alongside Faith, Shanti lends her fresh perspective to our conversations. This episode uncovers the unique challenges young authors like Shanti encounter and how her poignant novel in poetry, "You Won't Know Her Name," addresses the sensitive issue of bullying. Together, Shanti and Faith share their insights and experiences in the writing world, providing a heartfelt look at the camaraderie and growth that flourish in the face of adversity.

We also tackle the societal pressures young women face, particularly in male-dominated fields like science fiction writing. Shanti shares her personal experiences and valuable advice on navigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system. As Shanti gears up for her 17th birthday, she reflects on her evolution from writing in isolation to planning book tours and signings. Whether it's dealing with bullying, overcoming prejudice, or celebrating milestones, this episode showcases the resilience and determination that define young authors today. Tune in for insights, encouragement, and a glimpse into the vibrant world of young authors as they forge their paths to success.

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TRIGGER WARNING!!!! Ever felt the weight of family expectations dragging you into a vortex of emotional chaos? In this eye-opening episode, we unravel the complexities of life with narcissistic family dynamics, particularly the role of fathers or paternal figures. Together, we share deeply personal stories and the ongoing process of healing from the toxic ties that biology sometimes binds us with. We also give you a sneak peek into our upcoming book, "Choking on Shame: The Scapegoat Child in a Narcissistic Family," exploring our emotional journey and the cathartic process of writing about difficult parental relationships.

Through heartfelt and candid discussions, we tackle the loneliness of being the family "black sheep" and the societal blind spots surrounding narcissistic parental abuse. From the pain of exclusion at family gatherings to the ridiculousness of coercive contracts with loved ones, we lay bare the absurdities and heartbreak of navigating such environments. We also reflect on how these patterns echo into adulthood, shaping our relationships and self-worth, while challenging us to stand firm in our truth and find peace in genuine connections.

Amidst the tales of manipulation and deceit, the episode offers a beacon of hope. We highlight the power of resilience and choice, celebrating personal victories and the joy of surrounding ourselves with people who truly care. Laughter and the indomitable human spirit shine through as we share inspirational reads that offer solace and strength to those on similar paths. Join us as we speak our truths, break the silence, and remind you that healing and joy are possible, even in the shadow of family trauma.

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Ever tripped straight into a family comedy show? That's how I felt during my recent garage escapade, courtesy of my husband's cluttered stash. This episode promises a whirlwind of laughter and family antics, as we explore the art of multitasking—or failing at it—while humorously balancing garage cleaning, video gaming, and quality time with our quick-witted daughter, Faith. Brace yourself for some endearing family chaos that reveals the humorous glue binding us together, complete with Faith's clever digs at her dad’s multitasking prowess.

Ever received a gift you never saw coming? Picture this: an adult coloring book as the unexpected star of a mother-daughter prank. Our dinner table becomes an arena of wit over chicken Florentine, where teasing knows no bounds. From sneaky laundry tactics to foot massage schemes, our family's dynamics shine through in every laugh and jest. We even tackle the age-old gripe of broken promises, and how such letdowns can rattle family ties—yet through it all, the love remains unwavering and the humor, ever present.

Journey with us as we navigate the evolving landscape of parenting and discipline, contrasting old-school methods with today's more supportive approaches. My own experiences paint a picture of raising a child free from physical discipline, and the positive ripple effects it creates. We also raise a critical eyebrow at the traditional roles of authority figures in schools, emphasizing the importance of advocacy against bullying. And for a playful wrap-up, join me and our guest Pema in a spirited discussion about my latest cleaning book, where humor meets housekeeping in a delightful array of cleaning hacks and laughter-inducing anecdotes.

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TRIGGER WARNING! How does one find hope and strength amidst the storm of domestic abuse? In this powerful episode, we reflect on the courage of Victoria, whose personal journey through the darkness of domestic violence sheds light on the resilience and faith required to survive. Highlighting the critical importance of empathy and support, we underscore that abuse is not a competition but a call for solidarity and understanding.

We celebrate the extraordinary milestone of Dana Diaz's series on narcissism, which has touched over 3 million hearts on TikTok. Victoria's story vividly exposes the psychological and emotional toll of living with an abuser, stressing the need for strategic planning to escape such dire circumstances. Hear harrowing anecdotes of manipulation and brutality, from coercive marriage proposals to horrifying threats and violence, emphasizing the complex dynamics and internal battles faced by survivors.

As we delve deeper, we examine the systemic failures within institutions like the military in protecting victims, calling for urgent reforms. Victoria's narrative showcases not only her indomitable spirit but also the remarkable strength found in community and support systems. We encourage you to stay engaged with our series for continued insights and inspiration, and to explore Victoria's detailed journey through her books, "Who Kicked First" and "Nart Nart." Thank you for being a part of our Contagious Smile community, where every story shared brings us one step closer to justice and healing.

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Have you ever wondered how praise or neglect from a parent can shape a child's entire life? Join us as we unravel the complexities of narcissistic parenting and the "golden child" phenomenon. In this emotionally charged episode, Dana and I, Victoria, open up about our personal journeys through the minefield of dysfunctional family dynamics. We reveal how narcissistic parents manipulate their children, fostering division and lifelong psychological scars. Through our candid stories, we aim to shed light on these toxic patterns and offer a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges.

The episode takes a deeper look into the effects of favoritism on sibling relationships, digging into the tangible impact on self-esteem and mental health. We discuss how a mother's preferential treatment towards the golden child can create a ripple effect, influencing both the favored and overlooked siblings in profound ways. With heartfelt anecdotes, we highlight the enduring love and loyalty we feel towards our siblings, even when caught in the web of a dysfunctional family system. This conversation is a poignant reminder that one's worth is not defined by parental approval but must be found within.

Finally, we tackle the difficult topics of setting boundaries and the courage it takes to prioritize one's well-being amidst manipulative family demands. From the emotional toll of being perpetually blamed and marginalized to the struggle of finding validation in oneself, our episode is a testament to resilience and self-love. We reflect on the long journey to self-acceptance and the importance of nurturing genuine, loving relationships. This episode is more than just a discussion—it's a call to action for anyone grappling with family dynamics to seek healing and empowerment.

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https://acontagioussmile.sellfy.store/Why are our schools still plagued by gun violence despite increased security measures and funding? We reflect on how school shootings have become a distressing norm compared to our own school days, and analyze the data from the K-12 violence project to understand the fear gripping our students. Listen as we highlight a heartwarming initiative where fathers step up to patrol school hallways, and consider the potential rise of homeschooling as a coping mechanism for anxious parents. We emphasize our commitment to the Second Amendment while calling for innovative strategies to protect our children.

Child abuse, criminal justice, and the responsibilities of parenting are at the forefront of this emotionally charged discussion. Frustration boils over as we scrutinize the lenient treatment of perpetrators who commit unspeakable acts against children, sparking a debate on justice and its impact on victims. Our conversation spans broader societal issues such as the struggles of single parents, unwanted pregnancies, and the misuse of government assistance. Additionally, we question the influence of violent video games on youth behavior and the critical role of parental guidance.

Finally, we confront the harsh realities of domestic violence and the systemic failures that allow abusers to evade consequences. Heartbreaking personal stories highlight the additional trauma faced by victims, such as the unauthorized use of assault photos for training purposes. We explore the controversial actions of a sheriff who took extreme measures to protect his daughter, and the moral dilemmas that arise from such situations. To light up the end of our intense episode, we share the affectionate bond with my service dog and highlight our latest literary accomplishments, hoping to bring a smile to your face. Thank you for joining us on this profound journey.

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What if your closest confidants could be the very people who undermine your sense of self-worth? Join us as we unravel the dark and twisted dynamics of narcissistic families with my incredible friend Dana. We'll confront the roles of the black sheep and scapegoat, revealing the consistent and sinister tactics narcissists employ to manipulate and blame. Through our personal experiences, we highlight the struggles faced by those who see through the narcissist's facade and the relentless efforts made to discredit them. Our goal is to shine a light on these destructive patterns and arm you with the awareness needed to avoid falling into their traps.

Have you ever felt like you're carrying the weight of generational trauma on your shoulders? With reflections akin to David Pelzer's "A Child Called 'It'," we share the grueling journey of growing up in an abusive environment and the Herculean courage it takes to break the cycle. Drawing from our own lives, we explore the emotional and psychological toll of such experiences and emphasize the importance of resilience to heal and nurture future generations. It's a powerful narrative about the choices we make to reject a legacy of pain and build a foundation of love and self-worth.

Imagine living with the constant need to prove your honesty because your past keeps betraying you. We dive into the lingering effects of childhood trauma, the struggles for validation, and the exhausting patterns of oversharing that follow us into adulthood. Our discussion brings to light the universal need for unconditional love and the arduous journey towards self-acceptance. Through candid stories and raw emotions, we normalize the process of healing and emphasize that being affected by our past doesn't make us broken—it makes us human. Join us for an honest conversation that offers hope, resilience, and the powerful connection of shared stories.

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